Friday Dental Download: September 5, 2014

This week, we learn how dentists might help fight the obesity epidemic, discuss which foods and beverages are best for your teeth and discover that solid-head power toothbrushes may retain less bacteria than hollow heads. Join in the conversation on Twitter using #FridayDentalDL.

1. Healthy Teeth and Gums Lead to Lower health Care Costs: A recent study that involved checking the health and dental insurance records of 338,891 people with one of five conditions (type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy), found that periodontal therapy can improve health. The researchers report that within 4 years, people who had treatment for gum disease had lower medical costs and fewer hospitalizations compared with people who didn’t have treatment.. For more information click here.

4. Dentists Help in Fight Against Obesity, Study Finds: A study, published in the Sept. 1 Journal of the American Dental Association, found that counties with a higher number of dentists per capita have strikingly lower rates of obesity than their peers, even within the same state. The researchers analyzed data from 2,841 counties across the United States. Among the factors considered were the percentage of obese adults – those with a body mass index of 30 or greater – and the number of primary care physicians and dentists per 10,000 people.

5. What To Eat For Healthy Teeth: 6 Fortifying Foods to Boost Oral Health: Our foods and dietary habits affect our mouth’s ability to stop bacteria that contributes to plaque and cavities. Numerous studies have found that antioxidants and other essential nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and other everyday foods boost the body’s immunity while helping to promote good oral health. To boost your oral health, this article recommends that you eat cheese, drink black coffee, eat gummy bears, drink red wine, eat steak, and drink green and/or black tea. For healthy menu tips when planning your next BBQ or party click here.